The person requested anonymity because Dolphins officials declined comment and may be close to a decision.

Cameron, 45, first interviewed with the Dolphins shortly after coach Nick Saban left for Alabama on Jan. 3. Cameron became available when San Diego was eliminated from the playoffs Sunday by New England.

The Chargers announced Wednesday that Marty Schottenheimer will return as head coach next season. There had been speculation the Dolphins might pursue him if he was fired.

Cameron has coached a high-powered attack the past five years in San Diego. Led by NFL most valuable player LaDainian Tomlinson, the Chargers ranked fourth in the league in offense this season and finished 14-2, best in the NFL.

The Dolphins might opt for a coach with an offensive background because they've struggled to score in recent seasons. They averaged 16.3 points per game in 2006, their lowest figure since their second season in 1967.

Before joining the Chargers in 2002, Cameron was head coach at his alma mater, Indiana, from 1997 to 2001. His record there was 18-37, but he coached All-American quarterback Antwaan Randle El, and in 2000 the Hoosiers ranked seventh in the nation in rushing.